Pakistan Conducts 56 Strikes Inside Afghanistan
Pakistani security officials have announced that at least 56 strikes were carried out against terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan. These operations come amid heightened tensions and are part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to combat militant groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The strikes, according to sources, target locations from where attacks on Pakistan are planned.
Sources emphasize that these actions are aimed at combating terrorism rather than targeting Afghan civilians. They highlight instances like the attack on Tirlai Mosque and Wana Cadet College, suggesting that militants in Afghanistan provide logistical support for Taliban operations against Pakistan. Officials confirmed the destruction of militant hubs across several locations, including Bagram, during the strikes.
The sources claim that terrorist leadership is sheltered within civilian areas while active militant groups are being targeted at multiple locations along the Afghan border. They warn that Afghanistan is increasingly serving as a safe haven for extremist organizations.
In response to recent attacks on innocent civilians in Bannu by militants allegedly not following Islamic teachings, officials stressed Pakistan’s resolve against extremism. The province’s apex committee has been reviewing security matters, including madrassa registration and illegal Afghan repatriation.
Officials emphasized the need for intensified counterterrorism measures and voiced criticism over the current Afghan government, which they believe enables militant groups. They also stated that if Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are freed from political influence, they could effectively combat terrorism.
Pakistani forces have taken control of 36 border posts during these operations. Officials reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty without territorial ambitions but against criminal networks active along the border and terrorist organizations.
The country’s security services maintain that daily intelligence-based operations are targeting internal as well as external threats, with over 200 such operations conducted daily.
Security sources concluded by stating that while Pakistan mourns the sacrifices of its security forces, the nation remains steadfast in confronting terrorism to safeguard the homeland. The ongoing operations will continue until Afghanistan takes a clear stance against militant groups.